tato dharmaḥ pravakṣyati dharmaṁ yaḥ sarva-pravṛttim

tato (then) dharmaḥ (Dharma, the righteous) yaḥ (which) sarva-pravṛttim (all undertaking) dharmaṁ (the righteous path) pravakṣyati (will speak)

Advaita Vedānta (Ādi Śaṅkarācārya): This verse, 'tato dharmaḥ pravakṣyati dharmaṁ yaḥ sarvapravṛttim,' underscores the non-dual nature of reality by implying that Dharma, as the universal principle, is self-evident and inherent in all actions. Shankara's commentary on the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (2.5.19) emphasizes that the knowledge of Brahman, the ultimate reality, is not something to be acquired but rather realized as it is the very essence of the self (ātman). This verse from the Mahabharata supports this view by suggesting that the true Dharma, which is synonymous with the universal order or righteous way of living, is not something imposed from outside but is an intrinsic principle guiding all actions. Through the recognition of this inherent Dharma, the individual self (jiva) comes to understand its non-dual identity with the ultimate reality (Brahman). This perspective aligns with Shankara's interpretation of the Upanishads, where the ultimate goal is the realization of the identity of the individual self with the universal self, leading to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Vaiṣṇava tradition (Rāmānujācārya / Madhvācārya): In the Vaiṣṇava tradition, this verse is seen as an affirmation of the dependent relationship between the individual soul (jīva) and the Supreme Lord (Īśvara). Rāmānujācārya's Viśiṣṭādvaita Vedānta emphasizes the real distinction between the individual self and the ultimate reality while also stressing their inseparable relationship. According to Rāmānujācārya, the Dharma proclaimed in this verse refers to the path of devotion and righteous living that leads the jīva towards liberation, which is achievable only through the grace of Īśvara. The phrase 'sarvapravṛttim' suggests that all actions and endeavors of the jīva are ultimately governed by the will of Īśvara, reinforcing the concept of divine providence. This interpretation underscores the devotional aspect, highlighting the importance of surrender to and dependence on the divine will as the core of Dharma, in line with the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, a key text for Vaiṣṇavas.

Neo-Vedānta (Swami Vivekānanda / S. Rādhākrishnan): Swami Vivekānanda's interpretation of this verse focuses on its practical and universal application, emphasizing the inherent goodness and divinity in every individual. He saw Dharma as the universal ethical code that, when followed, leads to the realization of one's true nature and, consequently, to the service of humanity. In his lectures and writings, Vivekānanda often referred to the concept of 'sarvapravṛttim' as indicative of the all-encompassing and inclusive nature of true Dharma, which guides not just personal actions but also collective endeavors towards the betterment of society. This understanding resonates with S. Rādhākrishnan's view that Dharma is not merely a personal virtue but a principle that should guide human actions towards the creation of a more just and harmonious world. The universal application of this verse, as seen through the lens of Neo-Vedānta, encourages individuals to recognize their role in contributing to the greater good, reflecting the principle that true righteousness is that which benefits all.

More from this source